17/02/2026
Please read this and please stick to the things to prevent fires like over hanging trees and full gutters.
Posted yesterday so copied and pasted it.
Today, we pause to remember one of the most significant events in South Australia’s history: the Ash Wednesday bushfires of 1983.
For many in our community, the memories of that day remain vivid. For others, it serves as a sobering reminder of the power of the Australian landscape and the vital importance of CFS volunteers and community preparedness.
The Facts:
• Widespread Impact: Over 180 fires broke out across South Australia and Victoria. In SA, the most devastated areas included the Adelaide Hills, the South East, and the Clare Valley.
• Loss of Life: 75 people tragically lost their lives across both states (28 in South Australia and 47 in Victoria).
• Environmental & Property Loss: In SA alone, over 160,000 hectares were burned, and more than 380 homes were destroyed.
• Extreme Conditions: The fires were driven by several years of severe drought and a day of record-breaking heat, with temperatures reaching 43°C and wind speeds exceeding 100km/h.
• The first fire was reported at 11:30 am at McLaren Flat. Within hours, multiple reports of breaking fires quickly began.
Why We Remember:
We remember Ash Wednesday to honor the lives lost and the incredible bravery of the firefighters—many of them volunteers—who stood on the front lines.
This anniversary is also a critical reminder that we live in a fire-prone environment. History shows us that conditions can change rapidly. Being prepared isn't just a suggestion; it is a necessity for protecting your family, your home, and your neighbors.
Take Action Today:
• Review your Bushfire Survival Plan: Do you know when you will leave and where you will go?
• Prepare your property: Keep grass short, clear gutters, and remove flammable materials from around your home.
• Stay Informed: Download the Alert SA app and monitor local radio during the fire season.
The legacy of Ash Wednesday is the resilience of our community and the lessons we’ve learned to keep South Australia safer.
Stay safe, stay prepared.
Photo from cfs website: https://www.cfs.sa.gov.au/news-media/media-alerts/remembering-ash-wednesday-1983/
